ABOUT KIMONDO

Like the herds of antelope that have made the Serengeti the most famous wilderness region on earth, Kimondo is a traveller. As the seasons wax and wane so this migration camp crafted of wood and canvas follows the herds on their never-ending journey across the grasslands of East Africa.

From July to October home for Kimondo is near the sinuous Mara River on the famous Lamai Wedge, where massive herds brave the jaws of hungry Nile crocodiles. As winter eases and summer warms the land, the herds move south to calve in the lush grasslands of the southern Serengeti. As the herds move, so does Kimondo, to ensure you’re never far from the heart of the migration.

But unlike the thundering wildebeest, Kimondo – like its sought-after sister-camp Olakira – leaves no footprint behind. Entirely solar-powered, it’s a migration camp that touches the earth lightly while providing authentic luxury on the Serengeti plains. With just eight comfortable tents Kimondo offers an intimate safari experience; a sumptuous taste of how the early explorers discovered the wonders of East Africa.

From rich hand-woven rugs to burnished copper lanterns a sultry mix of Moroccan exoticism and East African safari romance resonates at Kimondo, where king-size cast-iron beds rest under canvas ceilings as the rustle of the savannah lulls you to sleep. Or leave sleep for a while and linger at the fireside, swopping tales of your day in Africa as the embers crackle up towards the Milky Way. Kimondo translates as ‘shooting star’ and in Tanzania’s crystal-clear skies you’ll be sure to see more than a few.

Location + Area

There’s a good reason for choosing a mobile camp over a permanent lodge: the migration is a transitory beast, forever on the move. And as the herds of wildebeest travel on their never-ending circuit of the Serengeti, so Kimondo gives guests a front row seat to the action.

About the Area

Kimondo in the North (July - October)

A golden triangle of grassland between the Mara River and Kenyan border, the Lamai Wedge is regularly hailed as one of the highlights of the entire Serengeti ecosystem. A gathering point for the herds that have made it safely across the Mara River, during winter it’s a region rich in wildebeest and antelope. And, of course, the predators that pursue them.

It’s here that Kimondo puts down roots from July to October, offering unparalleled Big Five sightings just minutes from camp. The Mara River, famed for dramatic scenes as the herds attempt the treacherous crossing, is just a short drive away allowing you to experience both the drama of the migration and the stillness of the Serengeti.

Kimondo in the South (December - March)

As the days warm up, the herds lift their noses and head south, with Kimondo not far behind. In November the camp is closed as the tents are folded and the site returned to its previous, pristine condition.

Come December, Kimondo is pitched anew in the shade of a stately Acacia Tortillis, deep in the southern Serengeti. It’s here on these grassy plains that the millions of wildebeest who have wandered hundreds of kilometres have a chance to calve, graze and rest… forever keeping a watchful eye out for hungry lion and cheetah, of course.

Set in a natural amphitheatre with outstanding views of a permanent water hole, Kimondo’s summer home is an idyllic one. Superb game viewing can be had on the daily game excursions, or simply enjoyed from the private terrace of your safari suite. The migration, it would seem, has come to you.

Accommodation + Facilities

Kimondo is a mobile camp which moves with the migration, splitting the year between the north and south of the Serengeti, just like the millions of wildebeest which move with it. But this is certainly not camping as you know it.

The traditional safari tents are spacious, with either king size or twin beds and large verandahs for afternoon naps. The en-suite bathrooms have flush loos, hot and cold running water and the traditional safari bucket shower. Meals are either taken outside, under the stars or in the dining tent. The mess tent is full of comfy places to relax and books to browse.

ACTIVITIES

CLOSEST AIRSTRIP

"I can’t say enough good things about this camp, their staff, and its location. From the moment we stepped off the plane and were greeted by our guide, Reuben, we were made to feel welcome, and most importantly, comfortable and safe. When we arrived at camp, Richard, the manager, really made us feel at home. Our three boys, aged 11, 13 and 15, shared a tent, and my husband and I had the tent next to it. It was incredible to have such comfortable accommodations in such a remote place - flush toilet, hot bucket shower, an actual bed, and a lounge area."

"The true highlight & one that can make a difference was visiting the school in the local village."

Little Oliver’s is built in complete harmony with the surrounding environment and guest accommodation consists of 5 expansive tents each with en-suite facilities, indoor and outdoor bucket showers and decks.